Indiana basketball coach Bob Knight dies at 83

Nicknamed "The General," Knight was one of the sport's most successful coaches, finishing his career with 902 victories over 42 seasons.

By Ben Whedon

Published: November 1, 2023 8:30pm

Indiana basketball coach Bob Knight died Wednesday at the age of 83.

"It is with heavy hearts that we share that Coach Bob Knight passed away at his home in Bloomington surrounded by his family," a statement on his website confirmed. "We are grateful for all the thoughts and prayers, and appreciate the continued respect for our privacy as Coach requested a private family gathering, which is being honored."

"We will continue to celebrate his life and remember him, today and forever as a beloved Husband, Father, Coach, and Friend," it continued.

Nicknamed "The General," Knight was one of the sport's most successful coaches, finishing his career with 902 victories over 42 seasons. He coached for the United States Military Academy, Indiana University Bloomington, and Texas Tech.

Knight retired in 2008 with four national championships, including one as an Ohio State player, according to the Associated Press. At that time, he held the Division 1 men's record for wins. In later life, he was a strong supporter of former President Donald Trump and even appeared at a rally for the former president in the Hoosier State in 2018.

Trump lamented Knight's death on social media.

"The World just lost an incredible person, the Great Bobby Knight. He was not just an award-winning and record-breaking Coach, he was loyal to his Players, to his State, and to our Country—Tough as nails, but a big heart," he posted on Truth Social. "When he Endorsed me, it was like the whole Great World of Indiana opened up happy and wide. Our hearts and prayers are with his wonderful wife Karen and Sons, Tim and Pat—Their Father was a great man!"

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter.